New Research: 9 in 10 GLP-1 Users May Miss Protein Targets
New research, slated for presentation at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO) in Turkey, indicates a significant nutritional concern: nearly 9 out of 10 individuals using GLP-1 weight loss drugs such as semaglutide and tirzepatide may not be meeting their recommended daily protein intake. A team from Italy analyzed over 5,700 days of data from 332 adults with overweight or obesity, comparing the dietary habits of those using GLP-1 receptor agonists (RAs) with non-users.
Dietary Habits Compared
The analysis revealed that participants taking GLP-1 RA drugs reported significantly lower total energy intake, averaging 1,102 kcal/day, compared to non-users who consumed 1,281 kcal/day. Beyond calories, GLP-1 RA users also showed significantly lower intake of other macronutrients, including carbohydrates and fat.
The Protein Puzzle
The weight-adjusted daily protein intake for GLP-1 RA users was notably low at 0.6g/kg/day. A striking 88% of these individuals were not meeting the Italian national recommendation of 0.9g/kg/day.
The weight-adjusted daily protein intake for GLP-1 RA users was notably low at 0.6g/kg/day, with 88% not meeting the Italian national recommendation of 0.9g/kg/day.
A Widespread Concern
Individuals not using the weight loss drugs also reported protein intake below national guidelines, at 0.7g/kg/day. Researchers suggest that insufficient protein consumption is a concern regardless of the weight loss method employed.
Lead author Dr. Valentina Vinelli from Vita-Salute San Raffaele University in Milan highlighted the widespread protein inadequacy and increased meal skipping associated with real-world GLP-1 RA use.
Urgent Need for Nutritional Guidance
Dr. Vinelli emphasized that addressing these nutritional gaps is crucial for comprehensive care. She stressed the urgent need for integrating proactive nutritional monitoring and personalized dietary guidance into obesity treatment to support long-term health beyond just weight loss.